I am looking to make a lemon cake with cream cheese frosting for my daughter's birthday this weekend.  It will be in the shape of a flower with Hello Kitty's face on top, so I need to be able to do a little carving.  Here is the recipe I plan to follow (I have compiled it from many internet searches):

1 box yellow cake mix

1 small lemon instant pudding mix

1 c 2% milk

1/3 c vegetable oil

4 eggs

I usually like to substitute applesauce for some or all of the oil but am hesitant in this recipe.  I have never done the pudding and extra egg thing nor have I used milk instead of water.  Will using the applesauce dramatically change the texture or flavor?  I'm also concerned about "carvability."

Thanks!

Applesauce won't change the taste unless you use a flavored applesauce. I have even used cinnamon and couldn't tell a difference. It really hasn't made any difference texture wise. As far as carving, I really don't know as I don't carve cakes. Mud cakes and pound cakes are very sturdy and hold up great.